Dallas Extortion Defense Attorneys

At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we offer legal guidance and representation to those facing extortion charges. Our founding attorney, Patrick J. McLain, has over three decades of experience in the legal field and has served as both a federal prosecutor and a defense attorney. This wealth of experience gives him critical and comprehensive insight into both sides of any forgery case. 

Our approach is rooted in understanding the specifics of every matter and offering tailored strategies designed to protect the rights and interests of our clients. 

To schedule a consultation with a Dallas extortion defense attorney at the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, call (214) 238-9392 today.

What Is Extortion?

In legal terms, extortion is the act of obtaining money, property, or services from an individual or institution through coercion. This coercive act often involves threats of harm to the victim's person, property, or loved ones. It's important to note that the threat doesn't have to be physical—any act that puts someone else in fear of detrimental consequences can be deemed extortion under the law. In Texas, as per Penal Code Title 7, Chapter 31, extortion is classified as theft and is punished accordingly.

Types of Extortion

Extortion manifests in various forms, each with unique characteristics and legal considerations:

• Cyber extortion is one of the most common charges, where a perpetrator may threaten to release sensitive data or trigger a cybersecurity breach unless a ransom is paid. 
• Sexual extortion is another grievous form, where the extortionist may threaten to expose intimate photos or information unless the victim complies with their demands. This form of extortion can have a severe emotional and psychological impact on its victims, and law enforcement agencies treat it extremely seriously.
• Commercial extortion involves threats targeted toward businesses, such as damaging a company's reputation or disrupting its operations unless a particular demand is met. This can have dire consequences for a business's financial stability and market standing. 
• Less common but still significant is public official extortion, where public officials are threatened with the exposure of damaging information to influence their actions in office. The legal repercussions for this form of extortion are substantial, given the potential impact on public trust and governance. 

Each form is distinct, with its unique legal ramifications and defense strategies. We can help you make sense of the charges against you, taking into account every detail of your case. 

Penalties for Extortion in TX

In Texas, the penalties for extortion can be severe and vary depending on the nature of the offense, the value of what was extorted, and whether any bodily harm was threatened or inflicted. 

When classified as a misdemeanor, penalties can include fines up to $4,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. On the other hand, if the crime is considered a felony, the accused person might face more severe punishments, such as fines that can reach up to $10,000 and prison terms ranging from 2 to 20 years. It's also crucial to note that the court may impose additional penalties like restitution to the victim and probation.

Moreover, if the offender uses an electronic communications system or the internet to commit the act, it may elevate the severity of the crime, leading to enhanced penalties. The same applies if a public official is involved in the crime or if the extortion leads to significant financial loss to a business or individual.

Facing an extortion charge can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life, making it crucial to consult a reputable legal professional regarding the next steps of your case. At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, our legal team can provide thorough counsel and advice and guide you through the next steps of the legal process.